Device for initiating discharge of cold-cathode discharge tube

A devise for initiating discharge of a cold-cathode discharge tube having a discharge tube body internally coated with a fluorescence, and a cathode and an anode arranged as opposed to each other inside the tube body at opposite sides thereof, the discharge initiating device having a proximity conductor provided outside the tube body and disposed between the cathode and the anode, the discharge initiating device comprising first and second proximity conductors provided independently of each other and arranged below the cathode and below the anode respectively, at least one of the first and second proximity conductors being tapered toward the other of the first and second proximity conductors, providing a clearance between the conductors and a drive circuit connected to the first proximity conductor below the cathode, said drive circuit for applying a high voltage to the first proximity conductor and connected to the second proximity conductor below the anode for applying a lower voltage to the second proximity conductor than to the first proximity conductor.